Putin, Madagascar’s President Hold Talks at Kremlin

(MENAFN) Russian President Vladimir Putin held talks Thursday with Madagascar's President Michael Randrianirina at the Kremlin, with the devastating impact of two recent cyclones — which killed more than 40 people and displaced over 270,000 — dominating the agenda.

Putin opened the session by offering his condolences over the twin disasters before striking an optimistic tone on bilateral relations.

"We have seen, and it is clear to all, that your government is taking significant steps to improve the situation across the country. There are good prospects for further strengthening our bilateral ties in the political sphere. We were very pleased to recently welcome a high-level delegation from Madagascar to Russia," Putin said.

Randrianirina responded by making a direct appeal for Russian assistance as his country struggles to recover from the humanitarian toll.

"I would like to thank you for your invitation to visit the Russian Federation. It is a great country, and during this challenging period for Madagascar – particularly following the cyclones you mentioned – we hope we can count on your support," he said.

The meeting comes as Moscow has been aggressively deepening its footprint across Africa — extending military, political, and so-called "soft power" influence, with particular focus on Sahel nations bordering the Sahara Desert.

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